Yard Waste Site Changes Are Coming January 1, 2026
Residents can expect a hard reset on all municipal yard waste site access cards on January 1st, 2026. This is due to a software update as there has not been a card reset in 15+ years. Please note that your current cards will no longer work after January 1st, 2026, until you get them reset.
To get your existing yard waste site card(s) reset, residents of the City of Elk River must go to Elk River City Hall, and all other County residents go to either Becker, Big Lake or Zimmerman City Hall. Please bring your old card(s) with you to get them reset or pay a fee to get a new card(s). Also, please bring a photo ID with you to prove residency. If your address on your photo ID is not a Sherburne County address you will be asked to provide a utility bill as well. Each household will be limited to two (2) access cards. The first card is free and the second card will be $10.00. Replacement card fee remains $10.00.
Additionally, The City of Elk River is finalizing policy amendments that would result in a municipal yard waste site that is run independently of the other County supported sites starting on January 1, 2026. Like the County sites, Elk River is also doing a hard reset on all existing access cards. The current Elk River site is proposed to become a site open to only Elk River residents and contractors. If you reside in the Elk River city limits, you are encouraged to visit their website at elkrivermn.gov to learn more about the site rules, fees, and instructions on obtaining access cards.